Southern Living's Country Fried Steak

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly comforting, Southern Living's Country Fried Steak is a quintessential Southern favorite perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. This recipe features tender cube steaks coated in a flavorful seasoned flour mixture, dipped in buttermilk, and fried to perfection for a satisfying crunch. The dish is elevated with a rich, homemade white gravy made from the pan drippings, butter, and milk, delivering the creamy, indulgent finish this classic deserves. With a balance of paprika, garlic, and a hint of optional cayenne for a touch of spice, this hearty meal is a true comfort food staple. Pair it with fluffy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans to complete a restaurant-quality Southern feast in your own kitchen.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Cube steak
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups Buttermilk
• 2 None Eggs
• 2 cups Vegetable oil
• 2 cups Whole milk
• 2 tablespoons Butter

Directions

Step 1

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

Step 2

In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth.

Step 3

Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels. Coat each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and return it to the flour mixture for a second coating. Press the flour onto the steak to ensure it adheres well. Set aside on a plate.

Step 4

In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 5

Carefully place the coated steaks into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the steaks and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 6

To make the gravy, carefully drain all but about 3 tablespoons of the oil from the skillet. Add the butter and allow it to melt over medium heat.

Step 7

Whisk in 3 tablespoons of the seasoned flour mixture used for breading the steaks and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 8

Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 9

Serve the country fried steaks hot, smothered in the white gravy. Enjoy with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic Southern meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2296.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6371.7

Total Fat 518.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 104.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 279.2g
Cholesterol 812.2mg	0%
Sodium 5330.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 235.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 8.3g	0%
Total Sugars 48.5g
Protein 219.6g	0%

Vitamin D 514.0IU	0%
Calcium 1346.3mg	0%
Iron 30.3mg	0%
Potassium 4091.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 72.0%

Protein: 13.5%

Carbs: 14.5%